COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Traditional Program at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 60 credit hours of professional nursing coursework, and is designed to prepare students for entry-level registered nursing careers and future graduate study. The program combines a strong academic foundation with extensive clinical and laboratory experiences, allowing students to develop the knowledge, technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and professional judgment required in modern healthcare settings. Students complete general education requirements along with prerequisite courses in mathematics, English, public speaking, biology, psychology, sociology, and additional science-based subjects that support nursing practice. Admission into the professional nursing sequence requires completion of preprofessional coursework and competitive academic performance. Once admitted, students complete four semesters of structured nursing courses that must be taken in sequence, with a minimum grade of C+ required in both the testing average and overall course grade for every professional nursing course. The curriculum begins with professional nursing practice, pharmacology, health assessment, pathophysiology, and fundamental nursing care skills supported by laboratory and clinical experiences. Students then advance into adult health nursing, mental health nursing, geriatric care, and clinical care laboratories while strengthening their understanding of medications and patient management. Advanced coursework includes nursing care of adults with complex conditions, pediatric nursing, reproductive and newborn health, population health, leadership, evidence-based practice, and healthcare provider wellness. Throughout the program, students participate in extensive clinical placements where they apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare environments under professional supervision. The final semester includes a capstone experience and transition-to-practice coursework that prepares students for professional nursing responsibilities and successful entry into the workforce. Wichita State’s emphasis on applied learning, combined with access to healthcare facilities throughout Kansas, provides valuable hands-on experience before graduation. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, specialty healthcare units, and community health organizations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for advanced education in nursing practice, leadership, education, administration, research, and specialized nursing fields, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a stable, respected, and high-demand healthcare profession.